The Godling Chronicles The Shadow of God

chapter 6





About half an hour before Gewey, Kaylia, and Linis had reached the Chamber of the Maker, the sun broke through the clouds and brilliant rays of light pierced the pine needles and danced on the forest floor. The sweet song of birds hidden in the high treetops echoed and the earthy scent of pine and moss carried on a gentle breeze. Kaylia insisted they slow their pace to a leisurely stroll. Holding Gewey's hand, she merrily hummed a tune that Linis recognized and soon joined in, harmonizing in a deep baritone.

“Why the sudden cheer?” asked Gewey. He was loath to interrupt, but could no longer contain his curiosity.

Kaylia gave his hand a squeeze. “We may be at war, and darkness may swallow the world, but never forget to look around and enjoy the wonder of it.” She breathed in deeply. “And I suspect that once we reach the Chamber, these things will go unnoticed for quite some time.”

Gewey saw a squirrel darting in and out of view of a nearby pine. It made him think of Sharpstone, and the woods near his farm. As a young child just before the Long Freeze, he had built a tree house. He would spend the afternoon reading in it until the sun went down. A family of squirrels had built a nest in a nearby tree. He’d watched as the nest filled with babies and laugh when the mother would bristle every time he climbed up. Come autumn, the babies had grown enough to leave the nest. He remembered feeling sorry for the mother squirrel. Gewey smiled and shook his head at the silly things children do.

“That was a lovely vision,” said Kaylia.

Kaylia's words brought him back to the here and now. It still amazed him how much she could see through their bond. For Gewey it was different. He felt emotions and impressions, but never visions. He wondered if that would change when their bond was completed.

“I was a boy,” said Gewey. “After the Long Freeze I went back. The tree house was crumbled and rotten, and the nest was empty.”

“All things change, my friend,” said Linis. “And sometimes, not for the better.”

Soon the trail widened and met with the main road leading to their Chamber. At the crossroads, they saw three elves barring their way. Two were elf men and wore shimmering red tunics and breeches, long black coats that reached their thighs, and soft, black leather boots. On their sides hung thin long swords, the jewels on each hilt sparkling brightly in the sun. Their silver hair fell loosely over their shoulders and down their backs, and even from a distance Gewey could see their bright green elf eyes staring keenly at him.

The third was an elf woman. Half a head taller than the men, she was adorned in a blood red gown that fit nicely to her curves. A white sash was tied about her waist, and along with a thin silver belt, a small dagger hung on each hip. Unlike the others, her hair was jet black, decorated with wisps of silver which peeked out just enough to catch the sun and give her the illusion of an aura.

“Do you know them?” asked Kaylia. Her hand released Gewey's and slid to her knife.

“No,” Linis replied. “But stay your hand. We would not want to make friends into foes from our own fears.”

Kaylia tightened her jaw and moved her hand to her side.

“Greetings,” called Linis, holding his hand high. The elves didn't move. “Who are you, and what is your business?”

The elf woman whispered into the ear of the elf on her left. He nodded slowly. She took a step forward and held up a delicate hand. “Greetings,” she said. Her voice was gentle and calm, and though still several yards away she sounded as if she were just in front of them. “Come and walk with us. It would seem fortune has made our paths as one.”

Gewey, Kaylia, and Linis paused for a second, then approached.

Linis bowed. “I am Linis. This is Kaylia and Gewey. Your speech and dress are unfamiliar. From where do you hail?”

The elf woman smiled brightly, and though she bowed in turn to the group, her eyes never left Gewey. “I am Aaliyah,” she said. “My companions are Mohanisi and Nehrutu.” The elf men bowed in turn. Both elves were similar in appearance, apart from Mohanisi being a bit slighter in build, and an inch taller. “As for our home...that is a question best answered later.”

Kaylia stepped forward. That Aaliyah’s eyes still rested on Gewey, had not escaped her notice. “I think it is a question to be answered now.”

“Fierce,” said Mohanisi. “Much as we expected.”

“Decorum my friend,” scolded Aaliyah, though not too harshly. “They know us not, and have been through much hardship and pain.”

“And what do you know of it?” asked Kaylia.

“More than I care to, I'm afraid,” Aaliyah replied. Her voice was filled with pity and sorrow. Gewey found himself wanting to weep at the sound, as if her words stirred something inside him. “My dear Kaylia,” she said taking a small step forward. “We are here to bring glad tidings. We have come to help you, after many lifetimes of waiting.”

“I don't understand,” said Linis. “Where have you come from?”

Aaliyah glanced at her companions, who nodded in turn. “We are from across the sea. We are of the first race of elves to traverse the Great Sureshi, and settle these lands. And now we have returned. Though I fear we have returned too late.”

Linis' eyes widened in immediate disbelief. “Sureshi? I have not heard that word used since I was a boy. No one who has journeyed across the Great Abyss has ever returned, and you claim to be from there?”

“None of your folk who tried to reach our land would have survived,” said Nehrutu. “The Great Barrier has barred the way for thousands of years. It has only been nineteen summers since we have been able to get through ourselves. And yes, that is our home. Once, long ago, it was the home of all elves. But now...” He paused, placed his hand on Aaliyah’s shoulder, and nodded.

“Yes, quite right,” she said. “We should go. Your brothers and sisters await your return. I would think they would want our tale told to all.” She met Gewey's eyes once again. “And I suspect they are especially anxious to see you.”

“You seem to know something about me,” said Gewey. He was no longer afraid to reveal himself.

“Oh, indeed I do,” Aaliyah replied, with a hint of laughter. “There is not an elf among us that does not know of the coming of Shivis Mol. News of your arrival has caused great rejoicing. You are the herald of a new age and a new way.” She stepped forward and placed her ivory hand on Gewey's cheek. “I have dreamed of this day my entire life. As have all of my people.”

Gewey’s face felt hot at the touch of Aaliyah’s hand. He blushed and tried to look away, but couldn't. Her touch held him fast. A flash of rage flowed through his bond with Kaylia, breaking the spell before he stepped back.

“I see you have bonded to Shivis Mol,” said Aaliyah. Her eyes scrutinized Kaylia for a moment. “And yet you have no connection to...what is it you call it? The flow. How unusual.” She smiled. “And how fortunate for you. To be coupled with such as he, is a great honor, but requires great strength.”

“It is I who am honored,” said Gewey. He moved close to Kaylia and took her hand.

Aaliyah laughed. It was like bells on the wind. “I am sure that is so. She is clearly a noble elf...if that is the word I should use. I apologize, but certain concepts are difficult for us.”

“Being noble is a difficult concept?” remarked Kaylia, trying not to allow her anger to seep into her voice.

Nehrutu interjected. “Perhaps it is better to say we have no concept of...” He searched for the words. “We have no conflict among our people. At least not in the way you would understand. The idea of not acting noble, in the way you see it, is unknown to us.”

“But enough,” said Aaliyah. “There will be time for this when we arrive.” Nimble and swift as the wind, she spun around and walked down the road toward the Chamber of the Maker. Nehrutu and Mohanisi followed close behind.

Gewey, Kaylia, and Linis, looked at each other, then did the same.

As they approached the field where the pavilion had been erected, Aaliyah and her companions dropped back next to Linis. The field was still abuzz with activity, as hundreds of elves darted about.

“I believe you should make introductions,” said Aaliyah. “Considering what has happened here, it may be better if your people are greeted by someone more...familiar.”

Linis nodded in agreement.

Two guards barred their way when they reached the edge of the field. They eyed the strangers for a moment.

“They are not foes,” said Linis.

The guards grunted then stepped aside.

“A bit brutish,” remarked Mohanisi.

Linis pretended not to hear, but couldn't help but bristle at the insult. “They must be hard to survive these times. They fought bravely to protect their kin.”

“I meant no insult,” Mohanisi explained. “It is only that you are so different from what we know.”

Theopolou, Eftichis, and Bellisia approached from the pavilion. Kaylia ran ahead and embraced her uncle with joy. She held him tight for nearly a full minute.

“I am happy to see you are safe,” said Theopolou, smiling broadly. “Though I had no doubt Gewey would succeed in your rescue.” As Gewey approached with the others, Theopolou bowed. “Thank you,” he said to Gewey and Linis. “I am in your debt.”

Gewey bowed. “I wish I could say I freed her. But as it turns out she managed that on her own.”

Theopolou smiled lovingly at Kaylia. “A tale I would love to hear.”

“As would I,” said Bellisia. “But first I would like to know who you have brought among us.”

Linis introduced the elves and explained how they met, not failing to mention their claim.

“So you say you are from beyond the Great Western Abyss,” said Theopolou. His tone bore no hint of surprise or trepidation. “That would explain the news we received. Reports of red sails on the horizon have caused quite a stir.”

Aaliyah stepped forward and took Theopolou's hand. The old elf stiffened and staggered back. In a flash, Linis and Eftichis had drawn their knives and pulled Theopolou away. Mohanisi and Nehrutu made no move to stop them.

“No,” Theopolou cried. “Stay your weapons. I am not harmed...only dazed.”

“What happened?” asked Linis, holding Theopolou's arm.

“I beg your forgiveness,” said Aaliyah. “I thought it would be easier this way. As you are one of the more...how should I say this… talented among you. That is to say, you can use the flow.”

“Yes,” said Theopolou. He steadied himself and straightened his shoulders. “But I suggest you refrain from doing that again. At least until you have addressed the others.”

“Theopolou-” began Bellisia.

“She is who she says she is,” said Theopolou. “She merely communicated it to me in a manner which I am not accustomed. It was just too much at once.”

“I would speak to your people,” said Aaliyah. “But first, your wounded should be attended.” Her companions nodded in agreement. “You could help as well,” she said to Gewey.

“Of course,” said Gewey.

Linis stepped forward. “I will join you.” He could tell that Theopolou and the others had recently been using their powers to heal, and were exhausted, though they hid it well. “The elders should rest until we have done what can be done.”

“Of course,” said Aaliyah. “They have accomplished all they can.” She looked at Kaylia and smiled. “If you would tend to your elders while we do our work—”

“I will go with you,” said Kaylia.

“Theopolou and the others have greater need of you.” Aaliyah’s tone was not contentious, yet it held an air of authority that caused Kaylia to stop short.

“Stay,” said Theopolou. “You can tell me what happened after you were taken.”

Aaliyah didn't wait for a response. She turned gracefully and walked in the direction of the pavilion. Kaylia’s eyes followed her closely.

When Gewey and the elves entered the healing pavilion, they saw scores of elves lying injured in row upon row of beds that had been taken from the tents. As there weren't enough beds, the least injured were place on bedrolls. The rest were busy distributing food and medicine, and at first, hardly noticed the group’s presence. Gewey peered just beyond the pavilion, and could see others tending to the dead. His heart ached.

“How could this happen?” muttered Mohanisi. His face flushed with anger. He spun and faced Linis. “How could this happen?” This time his voice boomed with rage. Everyone in the pavilion stopped and stared.

Aaliyah gently placed her hand on Mohanisi's shoulder. “Calm yourself, my friend. This is not his doing.”

Mohanisi's muscles tensed until he trembled, then he closed his eyes. Gasps filled the pavilion as the elf filled himself with the flow. More and more entered him, until the air around him glowed with power. Only Gewey could hold so much...or so they thought. After a few seconds he released it and opened his eyes.

Mohanisi breathed deeply, then smiled apologetically at Linis. “Forgive my anger. Aaliyah is correct. This is not your doing. But I have not seen a sight such as this before. It took me aback for a moment.”

Linis bowed. “There is nothing to forgive. You are not wrong to feel anger. We have all allowed this to come to pass. I am as much at fault as any.” He could still feel the lingering power of the flow all around him, and all eyes still stared in amazement. “But, I must ask. How is it you can channel so much of the flow? Gewey is the only one I have seen use so much.”

“I doubt I have the power of Shivis Mol,” said Mohanisi.

“Your people have forgotten much,” Aaliyah interjected. “Once all elves could do as Mohanisi has done. Why you cannot, I do not know.” She squared her shoulders. “But now is a time to heal, not talk. Talk can wait, but the dying cannot.”

They all nodded in agreement. Without another word Aaliyah, Mohanisi, and Nehrutu started off in different directions and immediately began tending the wounded, with the power of the flow. Linis left the more severely injured to Gewey and the other elves, and began healing those who he could more readily help. Gewey went from bed to bed for what seemed like an eternity, using all his strength. By the time it was fully dark, he was barely able to stand. Linis was fairing no better, nearly losing his feet several times. Aaliyah and her companions seemed far less affected.

“Are you well, Shivis Mol?” Aaliyah asked Gewey, as he knelt at the bedside of an elf who had been run through. He only looked up when she touched his shoulder.

“Just tired,” said Gewey. “This takes a lot out of me.”

“I see.” Her tone sounded confused. “We have nearly done all that can be done. Mohanisi, Nehrutu, and I can finish this. You should rest. I am certain Kaylia will tend you well.” Her last remark sounded almost sarcastic.

Gewey shook his head, and steadied himself. “I'm fine.” He placed his hands on the wounded elf and channeled the flow. The wounded elf gasped and his eyes shot wide. After a few minutes the wounds began to close and the elf relaxed.

Gewey struggled to his feet and stumbled to the next bed.

“That is enough,” said Aaliyah. “You cannot go on. There are only a few others who we can help. I insist you rest.” Her words were commanding and Gewey could feel himself wanting to obey. “If you become ill, then I will need to heal you. This will take from those who need more urgent care.” She smiled. “Do not be concerned. Soon I will teach you to heal without so much effort.”

Gewey's resolve gave way. “I'll go.”

Aaliyah took his arm and guided him from the pavilion to where Kaylia, Theopolou and the others were gathered.

“He needs rest,” stated Aaliyah flatly. “Tend to him.”

Before Kaylia could speak, Aaliyah released Gewey and turned back to the pavilion. He nearly collapsed the moment her hand let go. Kaylia was quickly at his side and guided him to a waiting bedroll. Eftichis brought him some bread and wine, which he gratefully accepted. Linis arrived a few minutes later and lay down next to him. He didn't speak a word, and was asleep in seconds.

“You should sleep as well,” suggested Eftichis, who had seated himself a few feet away.

Gewey rubbed his neck and stretched his back until it made a sharp crack. “The others will be finished shortly. I want to be awake when they get here.” He yawned, in spite of himself. “If I sleep now, I won't be able to wake up.”

Small fires were being lit throughout the camp. The scent of spiced meat and wine wafted on the breeze.

At that moment, Aaliyah and the others appeared from the fading light. “We have healed as many as we could.”

“You have our gratitude,” said Bellisia, who had been seated beside Lord Chiron for several hours, talking quietly.

“Indeed,” agreed Chiron. “Many more would have died if not for you.”

“I only wish we could have done more,” remarked Aaliyah, sadly. “Many were beyond our power.”

“You should rest,” said Gewey. “You must be exhausted.”

“We are,” admitted Aaliyah. “More so than we have ever been. And I would have strength before I tell our tale.” She reached down and placed the back of her hand on Gewey's cheek. Kaylia flashed anger across their bond, startling Gewey.

“For one so ignorant of his own abilities, you did well,” said Aaliyah. Her voice was tender and musical, like the cradle-song for an infant prince. “Though I admit I was confused to see how little you know of yourself.” She glanced over to Kaylia, then fixed her eyes on Gewey's. “That will change. I will see to it.”

Kaylia moved close to Gewey, her face hot with jealousy.

Aaliyah smiled. “Fierce and protective. Though I must admit, I can understand why.” Her hair shimmered in the fire light. She stepped back and took a seat on a blanket a few feet away. Mohanisi and Nehrutu rested next to her. “In the morning I shall address the elves.”

“I am afraid it will have to wait until after the funeral rites,” said Theopolou. “They begin with the sunrise.”

“Of course,” said Aaliyah. She lay down and pulled the blanket over her shoulders. It was mere moments before sleep took her.

Gewey looked around. Small groups of elves were gathered around the fires, speaking in hushed whispers. No one had disturbed the newcomers while they were tending the wounded, but news of them spread like wildfire. Gewey smiled. Only the arrival of these elves could overshadow the presence of a God in their midst. And for that, he was grateful. He finished his meal and lay on his back. The stars were peeking out from behind wisps of thin clouds high in the sky. He wished the night was clear. The nights of a new moon were the best time for star gazing. Kaylia lay next to him, her head turned toward Aaliyah.

“She is beautiful,” said Kaylia.

Gewey reached over and took her hand. “I didn't notice.”

“You do not need to spare my feelings,” she said in a half-whisper. “I am not doubting your love for me.”

Gewey turned his head and met Kaylia's eyes “Good. And I'm not sparing your feelings. I was too busy in the pavilion to notice such things.”

“And now that you are not in the pavilion?”

Gewey pushed himself up and leaned over her. “And now that I'm not in the pavilion, you're still more beautiful.” He kissed her softly.

She smiled. “She wants you.” Pulling him to her she kissed him once more. “But she cannot have you. She called me fierce, but she has no idea how fierce I can be.” She stroked his cheek. “Now sleep.”

Gewey lay back down and closed his eyes. The tingle of Kaylia's touch still caressed his lips. As sleep took him he could feel his spirit drift. He had come to enjoy the sensation. Then he heard a call. Not in words, but a sweet summons, like soft music. Kaylia, he thought. A thin mist surrounded him. It was warm and soothing. He allowed it to penetrate him.

“I am here,” called a gentle, feminine voice.

A figure approached through the mist. Gewey expected to see Kaylia, but as the figure neared, he realized it was not her...It was Aaliyah.